Click on the image below to see an example of an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
The mandatory Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a result of an EU directive and is a key part of the Government’s strategy to reduce the 27 per cent of national carbon emissions that come from our homes. The intention of the directive is to ensure that building standards across Europe place a high emphasis on minimising energy consumption.
This involves a visit to your house by a qualified Home Inspector or Domestic Energy Assessor. The assessment takes between 20 minutes and 1 hr for most properties depending on size.
The efficiency rating is affected by the following factors;
- Size of property
- The age of the property (if not known the assessor is trained to determine the approximate age)
- Construction materials
- Glazing
- Heating system – Boiler, thermostats, controls etc
- Loft, cavity, and external/internal wall insulation
- Types of lightbulbs in use
An EPC tells you how energy efficient a home is on a scale of A-G. The most efficient homes – which should have the lowest fuel bills – are in band A.
The Certificate also tells you, on a scale of A-G, about the impact the home has on the environment. Better-rated homes should have less impact through carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.
The average property in the UK is in bands D-E for both ratings. Moden properties will often have a B rating due to the greater attention which now given to insulation and energy efficiency.
As well as the energy efficiency graphs the report also makes suggestions for how to improve the property’s energy performance, which will lead to reduced carbon emissions, lower energy bills and make the house more attractive to prospective buyers or tenants.
It is absolutely crucial that the ratings are correct for the property being sold for the following reasons (please see our FAQ for why you must not use the cheapest EPC Providers);
- The selling price may be affected by the ratings
- A seller or buyer may use the advice and conclusions to make improvements to the house
- A buyer may compare the ratings of one house to another and may affect their buying decision
Full EPC believes it is crucial to ensure that our Inspectors or any acting on our behalf have the highest qualifications and experience. Home Inspectors and Domestic Energy Assessors are legally qualified to carry the EPC Inspection. Quality EPC inspections are carried out only by fully qualified Home Inspectors or Domestic Energy Assessors who have been personally chosen by Full EPC. It is believed that this policy will ensure the most accurate EPC certificates. This is part of Full EPC’’s commitment to providing a top quality service.
Most sellers of newly built homes will have to provide a predicted assessment of the energy efficiency of the property, but a full Energy Performance Certificate should be provided to the buyer when the home is completed.
The cost of an EPC is variable depending on the size of the property. It is vital that you ensure that a proper assessment is carried out. Please see our FAQ answer on why you should not opt for the cheapest.
Full EPC can also advise you on additional, inexpensive measures that you can take to reduce your utility bill and reduce your carbon footprint.
